ROBERT L. JENKINS, JR., ESQ.
EASTERN PROVINCE
the purpose of the law from your vantage point? Jenkins: We are a nation of laws. Our laws provide order in our society and are a reflection of our common sense of right and wrong. Journal: Given the myriad organi- zations in which you have served, what responsibility do you think a lawyer has to be involved in the community? Jenkins: Lawyers are an invaluable part of our society. His role is to serve his community. In order to effectively serve in this capacity a lawyer must be engaged in his com- munity. Journal: What motto do you live by? Jenkins: I live by the motto that, “It is easy to be ordinary, but it takes courage to excel.” Journal: How does truth, justice, impartiality and liberty factor into the legal process? Jenkins: A trial is nothing more than the search for the truth. Jus- tice is arriving at a result which reflects society’s common sense of right and wrong. Impartiality by those sitting in judgement of others is critical to our system of justice. Our faith in our justice system is predicated on it being administered by those who are ob- jective and free of any bias in favor or against any particular litigant. In many ways our collective sense of liberty is intertwined with our justice system. It protects us not only from unfair treatment being perpetrated by one against another but also serves as a check on the potential abuses of the government. Journal: What do you like most about your job?
Brother Jenkins is a lawyer.
Sisters, South Carolina State Club (President). Journal: Are you involved in trade organizations related to your profes- sion? Jenkins: I am a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, Alexandria Bar Association and the City of Alexan- dria Chamber of Commerce. Journal: What type of law do you practice and how does your efforts benefit the community? Jenkins: I am a criminal defense attorney. I defend clients charged with committing criminal offenses on the local, state and federal level. Through my practice, I help to assure that all members of our com- munity are afforded the protections the Constitution guarantees. Journal: What would you say is
Jenkins: For as long as I can remember I have been enamored with the law. My pursuit of a career in the profession guided most of my decisions in school. As a kid growing up in South Carolina, I saw lawyers as champions, protectors and advocators. Admittedly, I also saw lawyers as powerful and wealthy. As a poor kid I wanted a career that not only could give me a sense of purpose but also the ability to pro- vide for my family. Journal: What were you involved in campus service, athletics or commu- nity wise, while in college? Jenkins: While in college, I was very involved in campus activities to include: Charles Hamilton Pre-Law Society (Vice President), Phi Alpha Theta Historical Honor Society (President) and Big Brothers/Big
Jenkins: As a lawyer, I have the
94 | SUMMER 2017 THE JOURNAL
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